Thread: Newbie Pre/Post SRS Question

Thanks guys,

I know that my WTG is not exactly WTG. The hair in some areas is growing up and at an angle. So you are right about that.

I have never just tried a WTG only. But that is a good point. Some experimentation is needed.

My razor was honed by Lynn prior to purchase and I know I have not rolled the edge with my newbie stropping.

So when you use the Nivea balm, how does that help with any weepers etc. Do you still need a styptic if you get that, or does the Nivea just take care of that?

I didn't ask this, but how often do you shave? I shave daily and I know when I am too aggressive with the pressure on the blade I really need to wait 2 days.

David

Originally Posted by Alembic

I didn't ask this, but how often do you shave? I shave daily and I know when I am too aggressive with the pressure on the blade I really need to wait 2 days.

David

I wait between shaves; typically 3 days but 4 days after I have an XTG shave. I do keep my neck clean most of the time, so I can shave below my jawline daily without irritation, which sounds opposite to what you have.

Every so often I'll try shaving after a day but the few times I've done it haven't gone well. I can go without nicks but, as you described initially, there is much more irritation. It might still be technique for me as I've only been doing this for a year -- but I'm fine shaving after a few days.

Unless I missed something you didn't say how long you have been shaving with a straight. It does take some time to get used to it. You might watch your pressure and your angle and the number of passes you do. That's what usually causes razor burn. The alum block is a good test because the more burn you have the more you have to watch your technique. There should be no burn at all even if you shave every day.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Unless I missed something you didn't say how long you have been shaving with a straight. It does take some time to get used to it. You might watch your pressure and your angle and the number of passes you do. That's what usually causes razor burn. The alum block is a good test because the more burn you have the more you have to watch your technique. There should be no burn at all even if you shave every day.

Thanks for that input. I have been SRS for about 3 weeks now. I know that is a short enough time that I have plenty of weak skills yet. But I like the idea of using the alum block as a feedback mechanism. It stings like hell.

Alembic,

If you're only three weeks into str8 razor shaving you should expect to feel some burning of your face after a shave. Your face has to adapt to the new style of shaving you are using (ie. str8 razor). Give it about 1-2 months so that your face can adapt.

Additionally, as part of your pre-shave routine try the following--eliminate the 2nd application of olive oil and instead apply some bay rum aftershave lotion to your beard before applying olive oil--part of a pre-shave ritual referred to here at SRP as the "Robeson" method. Maximillian and several other SRP emembers swear by it. Since the bay rum has anti-inflammatory qualities, it may reduce your skin irritation and/or razor burn.

I feel your pain Alembic, literally. haha! I did my 3rd shave earlier today and so far every time my lower neck has been razor burned. I'm going to take the weekend off to rest it up.

I've got pretty thick/coarse facial hair that grows fast. I'm thinking that I may have to switch to shaving every other day or every couple of days till my face gets used to straight shaving. Good thing my job doesn't mind me looking like a scruffy bum.

My preshave is merely:

Hot shower
Art of Shaving pre-shave oil

Lather up
shave once with the grain (except the neck I'm not 100% with the grain but working on that)

I did use the nivea aftershave for sensitive skin and it felt pretty good for most of the day, untill I rubbed my neck and aggrivated the area.

Originally Posted by CleanCutCanuck

I feel your pain Alembic, literally. haha! I did my 3rd shave earlier today and so far every time my lower neck has been razor burned. I'm going to take the weekend off to rest it up.

I've got pretty thick/coarse facial hair that grows fast. I'm thinking that I may have to switch to shaving every other day or every couple of days till my face gets used to straight shaving. Good thing my job doesn't mind me looking like a scruffy bum.

My preshave is merely:

Hot shower
Art of Shaving pre-shave oil

Lather up
shave once with the grain (except the neck I'm not 100% with the grain but working on that)

I did use the nivea aftershave for sensitive skin and it felt pretty good for most of the day, untill I rubbed my neck and aggrivated the area.

I have a pretty thick beard myself. I don't have many aftershaves and such, and though I'm pretty adventurous, the Mrs. is starting to get wise to my new hobby

Originally Posted by jhenry

Alembic,

If you're only three weeks into str8 razor shaving you should expect to feel some burning of your face after a shave. Your face has to adapt to the new style of shaving you are using (ie. str8 razor). Give it about 1-2 months so that your face can adapt.

Additionally, as part of your pre-shave routine try the following--eliminate the 2nd application of olive oil and instead apply some bay rum aftershave lotion to your beard before applying olive oil--part of a pre-shave ritual referred to here at SRP as the "Robeson" method. Maximillian and several other SRP emembers swear by it. Since the bay rum has anti-inflammatory qualities, it may reduce your skin irritation and/or razor burn.

Thanks for the bay rum tip. Any particular brand you reccomend?